What is the appropriate response if a patient complains about a roommate smoking?

When a patient expresses concerns about a roommate's smoking, the most appropriate response is to inform the patient that their nurse will be notified. This approach ensures that the patient's complaint is taken seriously and escalated to healthcare professionals who are trained to handle such situations.

By notifying the nurse, the patient's concerns can be addressed in a systematic manner and in accordance with hospital policies regarding smoking, which often include guidelines for secondhand smoke exposure and patient safety. This response demonstrates acknowledgment of the patient's discomfort and promotes a proactive approach to resolving the issue while maintaining a supportive environment.

Addressing the problem directly through the nurse also allows for a more structured intervention, such as discussing a potential solution or exploring options for adjusting room assignments if necessary. This ensures that the patient's health and well-being are prioritized, while also considering the roommate's rights.

Other options, such as advising the patient to ignore the smoking or telling them to confront the roommate, may not effectively resolve the situation and could lead to further discomfort or conflict. Arranging for the patient to be moved might be seen as a last resort and may not always be feasible without proper assessment by healthcare professionals. Thus, notifying the nurse is the most appropriate and professional response to the situation.